Wow, What a Week!

So far I’ve had a fabulous week. On Monday I discovered I’d won a free place to Food Blogger Connect I am REALLY excited. I haven’t been blogging for very long and, as a newbie, I was trying to justify going to Food Blogger Connect. I started writing London Unattached to develop an understanding of how social media works (I run a marketing consultancy) and to find out more about Word Press. Then, as an amateur foodie, I got a bit hooked on actually writing and now, just a couple of months on, I can’t see myself without it!

Then, on Wednesday, I went to Shacklewell Nights, my first experience of a Supper Club. What fun! I ate far too much, drank a little more than perhaps I should and really enjoyed the informal foodie atmosphere. Do read the review, and if you haven’t been, it’s an experience you shouldn’t miss

Today, I lunched very happily at Meson Los Barrilos, one of the most traditional Tapas bars I’ve found so far in London. We had a great selection of tapas including these battered prawns, one of the specials of the day, some fabulous artichoke hearts served with Spanish ham and delicious fresh grilled sardines.

The tapas was somewhat overshadowed by my next appointment – a mustard tasting experience hosted by Maille and Claude Bosi. I’ve written a fullreview here, but just to give you a little taste of the experience, here’s Claude Bosi in action,

Tomorrow I am off to The Waitrose Cookery School for an afternoon of cookery and wine tasting. What a fabulous week!

Recently Published

Bianco 43 - Pizzeria in Croydon

When I moved to South Croydon just over 4 years ago, I was a little amused by the ambitiously titled ‘Restaurant Quarter’, but have come to appreciate the area; not least as I can walk there and back and feel marginally virtuous after enjoying a meal. So it’s always interesting to see new restaurants open, what they have to offer, and ultimately if they become successful.

A couple of weeks back I was invited to the opening of Bianco 43, an Italian owned and run restaurant. We were able to sample some of the authentic foods; arancini, fresh mozzarella, beautiful cured hams, and of course, pizza. It’s a large restaurant, with a nice bar, an open kitchen and plenty of seating. Not that I need it now that my son is 22, but one feature I would have loved when he was little is the designated area at the back of the restaurant where professional babysitters look after visitor’s children while they eat their meal. It’s lovely to eat as a family, but to get your coffee in peace is great! The service is free for paying customers, available from 12-4pm Saturdays and Sundays at Croydon (and Blackheath) only. All ages are welcome and activities include soft toys, arts and crafts and games.